Yankees plan tributes to Steinbrenner, Sheppard

At Yankee Stadium Friday, players and fans will pay their respects to two men who were as much a part of Yankee history as any person who ever wore pinstripes.

It begins a weekend of tributes for owner George Steinbrenner and stadium announcer Bob Sheppard. Saturday is Old Timer's Day, when Yankee greats like Yogi Berra will joins fans in honoring both men.

Yankee Stadium has been quiet since Steinbrenner's and Sheppard's passing. Each was a Yankee legend is his own right.

On Friday night, as the second half of the baseball season begins, the Yankees and their fans will pay tribute to both icons. There will be a pregame video tribute to "The Boss," and both will be honored with a moment of silence.

Wreaths will be placed in front of Steinbrenner's statue and laid in front of Sheppard's plaque in Monument Park.

Sheppard, the team's longtime public address announcer, was laid to rest on Long Island Thursday.

"He lived a life in such a way that it's supposed to be lived, and the rest of us are sheer mortals in his presence," Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said.

The Yankees will wear patches on their uniforms, paying tribute to both men. A patch for Steinbrenner will be placed over the heart, and one for Sheppard on the left sleeve.

The deaths of both men were marked by all of baseball. There was even respect among rivals.

At Fenway Park Thursday night, the Red Sox held a moment of silence to honor both Steinbrenner and Sheppard.

A public memorial will be held at Yankee Stadium next week. Fans attending Friday night's game are asked to be in their seats by 6:45 p.m.